ULEZ Expansion Generates £5.3 Million in First Week
In the initial week following Sadiq Khan’s controversial Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expansion, a significant £5.3 million was generated, with over 300,000 additional drivers charged for operating non-compliant vehicles within Greater London.
The extension, designed to curb harmful pollution, imposes a daily £12.50 fee on individuals with non-compliant vehicles or a larger fine if left unpaid.
Surge in ULEZ Charges: Impact on Drivers
More than 425,000 ULEZ charges were recorded in the week post-expansion, a notable increase from the 140,000 charges in the week prior.
The scheme targets non-compliant vehicles, particularly those registered before 2006 for petrol cars and before 2015 for diesel cars. The data reveals the financial impact on drivers, with the potential for heightened concerns amid the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Widespread Non-Compliance: Research Insights
Research conducted by car marketplace Motorway indicates that approximately 16 percent of Londoners, around 714,000 people, own vehicles not compliant with ULEZ restrictions.
The financial implications of the scheme expansion are raising questions among drivers in London and surrounding areas, as revealed by Motorway co-founder Alex Buttle.
ULEZ Expansion Coverage: Greater London and Beyond
Previously limited to central London, the ULEZ zone expansion now encompasses all of Greater London, extending into Hertfordshire, Essex, Kent, Surrey, and Buckinghamshire.
This expansion, while aiming to address air quality concerns, has faced criticism and heightened scrutiny.
Advertising Watchdog Investigates Misleading Claims
Transport for London (TfL) is under investigation by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) for allegedly misleading claims about the benefits of the ULEZ scheme.
Complaints assert that TfL exaggerated the extent to which the scheme improved air quality, specifically in reducing levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2). The draft ASA report is expected to criticize the ‘misleading’ claims made in TfL’s radio and newspaper advertisements.
Public Backlash and Criminal Activity: ULEZ Cameras Targeted
Public discontent with the ULEZ scheme has manifested in criminal activities targeting ULEZ cameras. Between April and October, the Metropolitan Police recorded 987 crimes related to ULEZ cameras. Incidents include the theft and damage of cameras, with 220 reported thefts and 767 instances of damage.
The apparent disconnect between reported crimes and arrests has fueled criticism, raising concerns about the scheme’s overall impact and public reception.